Cross River State Launches Free Pet Vaccination Campaign for Rabies Prevention

The vaccination drive took place at the State Veterinary Clinic on Barracks Road on Monday. Organized by the Department of Veterinary Services within the Ministry of Livestock, Aquaculture and Fisheries Development, the initiative was conducted in cooperation with the Office of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Livestock Development.

Under the global theme “Stronger Together,” the campaign highlights the importance of collaboration among government agencies, veterinary professionals, healthcare workers, and community leaders to eliminate the disease.

Dr. Jude Undiandeye, the Director of Veterinary Services, reported that rabies is still endemic in Cross River State, with Calabar recently experiencing three fatal cases. He emphasized that rabies is a preventable viral disease that poses a serious threat to humans and warm-blooded animals, stressing that regular pet vaccinations are vital to preventing transmission.

“Pet owners must ensure their dogs and cats are vaccinated annually. Routine vaccination does not merely protect the animal; it safeguards families and the broader public,” Dr. Undiandeye stated. He warned against delaying medical treatment after an animal bite, advising victims to wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water and seek immediate medical attention.

“Prompt medical intervention is critical. Once clinical symptoms of rabies manifest, the disease is almost invariably fatal,” he cautioned.

He also urged for the implementation of the “One Health” approach, which integrates human, animal, and environmental health management. Dr. Undiandeye highlighted that controlling rabies requires collaboration across various sectors and encouraged communities to report unvaccinated animals and avoid self-medication for bite victims.

He appealed to the state government for consistent vaccine procurement and strict enforcement of annual vaccination laws, reaffirming Cross River’s commitment to eliminating dog-mediated human rabies by 2030.

Pet owners appreciated the financial relief provided by the state government through this initiative. Resident Simeon John commended the timing of the campaign, especially following recent dog-bite incidents in the area. Christopher noted that the vaccination drive helped him save significantly after bringing eight dogs and a cat for vaccination. Blessing Inyang, who learned about the event through social media, expressed her relief at finally being able to vaccinate her cat, a procedure she had postponed due to financial issues.